Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail

Quilcene, Washington

5.0/5

based on 2 reviews

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Details

Distance

10.5 miles

Elevation Gain

3481 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Ashlee Langholz

Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail offers stunning sunset and sunrise views from the pass overlooking Olympic National Forest.

This trail has a nice, steady climb that's perfect for beginner or intermediate backpackers. The first 2.5 miles follow a forest trail along the Big Quilcene River. For the next 3 miles, the trail flows in and out of shaded trees, over a small talus field, and through a meadow before the final accent to the pass.

From here, follow the ridge to the right or left and find your camp. If you want to climb another 900', take a day pack and summit nearby Buckhorn Mountain. When you're ready to take off, head back to your car the way you came.

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Features

Backpacking

Forest

River

Scenic

Wildflowers

Reviews

Cristal McClure

Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail

04/10/16

This is a FANTASTIC day hike and it's one of my favorites in the Olympics. While it can be challenging on a hot day, the views are well worth it, and a 360 panoramic view in the heart of the Olympics can't be beat. Once you reach Marmot Pass, there are a few neighboring peaks that are fun to summit (we've seen mountain goats up here!). You can also continue walking on a network of trails beyond Marmot that follow the ridgeline and provide epic views. The trail is never too crowded and it is easily accessible from Quilcene.

5.0

Explorer

Kyle Frost

Explorer

Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail

08/03/15

Great spot for a quick backpacking trip. We headed up the ridge to the left of the pass, which eventually leads to a bigger flat area with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks. Incredible spot for sunset and sunrise!

5.0

Rachel Christiansen

Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail

06/16/15

Great day hike too! I started at about 1:00 and finished before 6:00

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Marmot Pass via Big Quilcene Trail

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Nearby

Backpack to Marmot and Constance Passes

Buckhorn Mountain

Mount Townsend

Hike Lower Big Quilcene River

Hike to Royal Basin

Hike Falls View Canyon

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